The Zioneer reports that the United States is striking Iranian targets within Iranian territory, marking the first such direct attacks in a significant period. Further details on the scope and targets of the operation are pending.
The United States has expanded its military operation against Iran to multiple targets inside Iranian territory tonight, building on the initial strikes on Lark Island reported about half an hour ago. The Zioneer reported at 22:13 Jerusalem that US forces struck two Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps missile launchers on Lark Island, which an American official told i24NEWS were on standby to fire missiles carrying naval mines toward the Strait of Hormuz. A separate source confirmed to Al Jazeera that anti-ship missile launchers on the island had been targeted. The operation now appears to extend beyond that location, with reports of additional strikes deeper inside Iran.
The strikes come after months of escalating US-Iran confrontation. As The Zioneer has documented, US negotiations with Iran risked collapse as early as June 10, when diplomatic efforts were reported to be on the verge of unraveling. The collapse culminated in CENTCOM strikes on over 80 targets inside Iran, reported on July 9, and a subsequent 60-day negotiating period announced by Vice President Vance on June 18. That period has since expired, and the US has escalated to direct strikes on Iranian territory. An earlier report from July 9 indicated that President Trump received an intelligence briefing and that the US was preparing for 'prolonged exchanges' lasting days to weeks.
The expansion of tonight's operation reflects a shift from targeted strikes on naval threats—such as the Lark Island launchers poised to mine the Strait of Hormuz—to a broader campaign inside Iranian borders. No official statement has been issued by the Pentagon or the White House. The scope, specific targets, duration, and any damage or casualties remain unconfirmed. The Zioneer will continue to update as more information becomes available.
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